"No, from New York," coolly. "I regret having interfered with your programme." "Don't mention it; there are other ladies present, and, no doubt, your gallant act was worthy the reward; a pleasant evening, sir," and he drew aside, stiffly military. Eager to lose as little as possible of the measure I swung my partner forward, catching glimpse again of the man's face as we circled. "Pleasant disposition," I ventured, without meaning to be uncivil. "Oh, very," and her eyes met mine frankly. "But you must not quarrel with him; that is his one specialty, you know." "Is the warning on your account, or my own?" "Both, perhaps. Captain Grant's family and mine are neighbors--or were before war intervened--and between our fathers exists a life-long friendship. I could never consent to be the cause of his quarrelling with any one, and I have reason to know how quick tempered he is." "I have little use for any man who swaggers about seeking trouble," I returned, as she hesitated. "It has been my experience that there is usually cowardice back of such a disposition." "Not in this case," earnestly. "Captain Grant's courage has been sufficiently tested already. I warn you not to presume on your theory so far as he is concerned. I advise the safer course." "What is that?" Her eyes met mine, smiling slightly, and yet grave enough in their depths. "To let this one dance prove sufficient reward for your act of rescue." "You request this?" "Oh, you must not place the entire burden of decision on me, sir. I can only suggest." "Has Captain Grant any authority to dictate who shall be your partner?" Her lashes lifted, and then fell before my gaze. "He at least assumes the power, and generally with fair success. I must ask to be excused from discussing this matter further now, but--but," her voice trembled to a whisper, "I--I am sure your safety depends upon your leaving me." Astonished by these words, suddenly wondering if she suspected me, scarcely comprehending what she meant, I stared into her face, as we circled the room. Grant stood stiffly against the wall where we left him, his eyes fastened moodily on the crowd; I realized his presence, yet my whole thought was concentrated on the girl, the strands of her hair brushing my lips, her steps lightly following the music, her eyes downcast. Into the cheeks there came a flush of pink, and she glanced up to read the surprise in my face. "Do I need to say more?" "Yes, you must," I insisted, "you can never believe I would leave you because of personal fear." "I did not know--at first. Now I realize it will require a higher motive to influence you; not love of life, but love of country." I felt the closer clasp of her fingers on my guiding hand, and knew I took a deep breath of surprise. "Lean your head just a little closer," she whispered. "I--I know you, Major Lawrence, and--and I wish you well."